Volunteer in Cuba
Cuba is a unique country, mostly thanks to its political and social developments since the Revolution of 1959. Operating under an economic and political embargo imposed by the US, Cuba suffers from a lack of resources and international trade opportunities, which has led to a low national wealth level. Despite this, Cuban citizens are all provided with excellent, free education (at all levels), healthcare, and social care. The country also has an innovative and productive scientific development sector and a growing sustainability sector.
For US citizens and citizens of other countries, you can volunteer in Cuba with a variety of programs. Unlike other destinations, Cuba's one of the places where you really are better off volunteering through a program provider -- your chances of finding something independently is pretty low..
To get started volunteering in Cuba, explore your list of options below and read up on the various entry/exit requirements and logistics you'll have to think about in our guide.
Contrary to what many people may think, not all volunteer initiatives abroad require official qualifications or applicable education. The local communities in which you choose to volunteer are simply grateful that you are there in their best interest; volunteer organizations recognize this and ensure you receive any relevant training onsite. The most valuable asset you can bring is a positive attitude; you must be willing to work hard, be compassionate, and show flexibility in your volunteer tasks.
Conservation
Cuba is home to a rich variety of wildlife and numerous national parks. You may assist in scientific research of wildlife studies and conservation or simply collect data on various native species. You will gain valuable career experience if you intend to work in wildlife conservation or any natural science in the future.
Health
Cuba actually boasts one of the best health care systems in the world with medical technology being one of the country’s most prominent exports. Choosing to volunteer with an organization offering health care initiatives will provide you with an abundance of career experience and insights.
Youth and Education
If you are a social butterfly who enjoys working with or teaching children, has a passion for humanitarian efforts, or simply want to make a valuable impact on the lives of local families, you may be pleased to know that it is possible to participate in these rewarding volunteer projects without any pre-requisite qualifications. There are volunteer organizations that simultaneously provide projects under this category in Cuba, allowing you the choice of work type you prefer. There is less opportunity for teaching English in Cuba in recent years, as there are now many Cuban teachers fluent in English and other languages across the island. English-speaking visitors will always find Cubans eager to practice their conversation skills, however, especially at Universities.
Construction
Volunteering in the area of construction demands hard physical labor but grants you the honor of working alongside Cuba’s locals. Together you will provide construction and/or agricultural support that will be of value to the entire local Cuban community.
Solidarity
Cuba is a country that has been targeted by aggressive US policy for over fifty years. In order to counter the often-exaggerated claims made by other countries, Cuban organizations such as ICAP (Instituto Cubano de Amistad con los Pueblos) welcome international visitors to take part in “Brigada Solidaridad”. These programs generally include some agricultural work, as well as chances to meet with Cuban professionals across a range of fields, students, workers, and campaigners.
Agriculture
Cuba relies heavily upon domestic agriculture in food production, as the country is unable to trade with its nearest neighbor (the US) for vital food supplies. Workers in community co-operatives and nationally organized farms welcome visitors and volunteers to help with the still mostly manual labor required. There is a growing emphasis on organic, sustainable agriculture across the island which will interest any green-minded volunteers!
Arts
Cuba has a vibrant arts culture, with specialist schools for dance, music, theatre, film, and the visual arts spread across all districts. Community-based arts projects are encouraged, and exchanges with international volunteers are welcomed.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Though relations between Cuba and the U.S. are the warmest they’ve been in decades, the embargo hasn’t vanished completely. There are still specific restrictions on how U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba and what they can do while there. Tourism is not one of the approved reasons for travel to Cuba, but volunteering is.
According to OFAC’s Cuba FAQ, volunteering in Cuba is permitted through a general license for the following activities:
- Medical and health-related projects
- Construction projects intended to benefit legitimately independent civil society groups
- Environmental projects
- Projects involving formal or non-formal educational training, within Cuba or off-island, on the following topics: entrepreneurship and business, civil education, journalism, advocacy and organizing, adult literacy, or vocational skills
- Community-based grassroots projects
- Projects suitable to the development of small-scale private enterprise
- Projects that are related to agricultural and rural development that promote independent activity
- Microfinancing projects
- Projects to meet basic human needs (like food sustainability or health education)
Upon arriving in Cuba, you must have proof of a departure ticket and medical insurance and your passport must be valid 6 months beyond your planned departure date. You will receive a Cuban Visa, otherwise known as a Cuban Tourist Card. Your allowed length of stay varies depending on your country of origin so be sure to check with the Cuban Embassy of your residing country prior to making your travel arrangements.
For a small fee, extensions to your time in Cuba can be made; the length, again, depending on the country you are from. Typically the maximum time allowed in Cuba on a tourist visa is 6 months.
For American citizens, you are allowed to legally enter Cuba to volunteer -- typically on a People to People visa. Your volunteer program should assist you with the visa (and this is one of the reasons why we'd recommend volunteering through a provider and not on your own -- not to mention it's hard to find independent programs).
Cost of living
It is unlikely that you will have any of your expenses paid for by the volunteer organization unless you have a specific technical skill. With that being said, this would still be a rare occurrence and depend solely on agreements between you and the organization. Conveniently, however, it is common to pay a one-time all-inclusive price, (accommodation, meals, local excursions, sometimes round-trip flights). This would exclude personal spending money.
Money matters
Cuban Pesos (CUP) are the official currency of Cuba. American credit and debit cards are generally not accepted in Cuba nor can they be used at ATMs. US volunteers should plan to travel to Cuba with cash to exchange upon arrival.